I think in this environment other than finding someone with integrity and honesty, it is finding someone that is very conservative and cautious with there approach.

There is a lot to learn in today's environment and you really have to be knowledgeable on the loan process and underwriting guidelines. 

Now, I'm sure you would need a reason for doing this before the property was sold which should be unrelated to the transaction....in today's environment, this is an interesting strategy to explore.Maybe one of the attorneys here will chime in.

My recent observations regarding Texas economics are that Texas markets usually lag behind the steep declines and lead the recovery when things pick up hence making it a competitive market to invest in but safer more stable environment when things get messy.

Typically to work in this environment you would think they are well qualified.

If I was to do it again I would still go to college but use real estate to both pay for it and augment an already great environment.

In MD you need to register the property with Md Dept of the Environment and get a lead certificate.

Like all things in the universe a balance is required for a healthy environment and my county is way off kilter in this area, presently.On the texas gc comment I would have to respectfully disagree(somewhat).

If your silly 2% rule says "you can pay" $100,000 in a $200,000 market value environment then all you are in that market is a lookie loo, NOT an investor. 

Flipping in that environment would be incredibly risky.